Posts made in May 2024

What to Know Before CoolSculpting

Essential Aftercare Recommendations

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive option for those looking to reduce stubborn fat that resists diet and exercise efforts. Particularly popular for its FDA approval and convenience, CoolSculpting safely targets fat cells beneath the skin. The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), and then die over time, leaving a more sculpted you. Before considering this procedure, it’s crucial to understand what it entails and whether it’s the right choice for your body sculpting goals.

Aftercare is an essential step to ensure optimal results for CoolSculpting procedure in Vancouver. While there is minimal downtime, following specific aftercare recommendations can aid in the body’s natural process of eliminating dead fat cells. Incorporating gentle massages, maintaining hydration, and adhering to a healthy lifestyle can contribute to the effectiveness of the treatment and the longevity of results.

Key Takeaways

  • CoolSculpting targets and freezes fat cells
  • Aftercare practices enhance results
  • A healthy lifestyle sustains outcomes

Understanding CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is a targeted approach to reducing stubborn fat through cryolipolysis, suitable for various parts of the body. The procedure is FDA-approved, non-invasive, and does not require surgery.

The Science of Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis is the underlying scientific process behind CoolSculpting. This technology cools fat cells to a temperature that destroys them without harming surrounding skin or tissue. Over time, your body naturally processes and eliminates these cells, resulting in a reduction of fat in treated areas.

Ideal Candidate for the Procedure

You may be an ideal candidate for CoolSculpting if you’re looking for a non-surgical method to reduce fat in areas like your chin, back, thighs, abs, love handles, buttocks, arms, and abdomen. It’s best suited for those with stubborn fat pockets that persist despite a healthy lifestyle.

Consultation and Preparation

Before undergoing CoolSculpting, it’s important to have a consultation with a specialist to discuss your goals and determine if you’re a good fit for the procedure. During this time, you’ll be advised on how to prepare, such as maintaining a stable weight and avoiding certain medications.

Areas of Treatment

CoolSculpting can be used on multiple parts of the body where stubborn fat is a concern. Common areas include the abdomen, sides (love handles), upper arms, and thighs. Sessions vary in length depending on the size and number of areas being treated, but they typically last a few hours, and you can book this treatment in Vancouver if you’re looking for local options.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following your CoolSculpting procedure, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery and to optimize results. Your attentiveness to the recovery process and aftercare instructions can greatly influence your healing, the appearance of side effects, and overall satisfaction with the treatment.

Post-Treatment Instructions

Directly after your CoolSculpting treatment, you should follow specific post-treatment instructions to support the body’s natural process of eliminating the treated fat cells. Massaging the treated area gently for a few minutes several times a day may enhance the breakdown of fat cells and aid the lymphatic system in flushing them out. Refrain from consuming alcohol and reduce intake of sugar and carbs, as a healthy diet supports recovery. Adherence to these guidelines facilitates a swifter, more effective recovery.

  • Immediately After Treatment:
    • Massage treated area
    • Avoid alcohol and high-sugar foods
    • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

Managing Side Effects

Common side effects such as swelling, bruising, and redness might occur post-CoolSculpting. To manage discomfort, apply cold compresses and consider wearing a compression garment. These side effects typically resolve on their own. Should you experience numbness or skin sensitivity, it’s often temporary. Contact your provider if side effects persist or worsen.

  • Common Side Effects:
    • Swelling
    • Bruising
    • Pain

Monitoring Results and Progress

With CoolSculpting, no downtime is required, and you can immediately return to day-to-day activities. However, it’s important to monitor the progress of your results patiently, as it can take several weeks to see noticeable changes. Maintaining a regular exercise routine and adhering to a healthy lifestyle can enhance and maintain results. Keep in mind that, while rare, there is a risk of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), a condition where the treated area increases in size; report any unusual changes to your provider.

Lifestyle After CoolSculpting

Post-treatment lifestyle choices play a crucial role in maintaining results. Stick to a diet low in processed foods and maintain regular exercise to prevent new fat cell development. Avoid smoking as it can hinder the body’s healing process. High consumption of carbs and calories can counteract the slimming effects of CoolSculpting, so prioritize a balanced diet and lifestyle.

  • Recommended Lifestyle Practices:
    • Incorporate regular exercise
    • Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet
    • Avoid habits that can impede healing (e.g., smoking)

Conclusion

Before opting for CoolSculpting, ensure you’re well-informed about the procedure, including the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise post-treatment. After the procedure, follow aftercare recommendations like gentle massages and maintaining hydration to support recovery. Remember, results vary and patience is key as it may take a few weeks to a few months to see the full effects of CoolSculpting.

Top 6 Tips for Bulking Up the Smart Way

Gaining muscle and bulking up takes dedication, hard work, and the right approach. While it may be tempting to try quick fixes or “dirty bulking,” making smart choices will help you build lean muscle mass in a healthy and sustainable way. Follow these top tips to bulk up effectively and reach your fitness goals. 

Focus on Compound Exercises

Compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously are your best friend when bulking up. Exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, pull ups, and rows stimulate muscle growth and boost your caloric burn. Aim to base your workout around these multi-joint movements focusing on progressively overloading the muscles with heavier weights and lower reps. This teaches the muscles to get stronger and sparks growth. Focusing on proper form and full range of motion is also key to maximizing the benefits of compound lifts.

Eat More Calories in a Controlled Way

Bulking up requires being in a caloric surplus where you consume more calories than you burn. Increase your calorie intake gradually by adding around 300-500 extra calories per day to avoid excessive fat gain. Focus on getting those extra calories from nutritious whole foods like lean proteins, complex carbs, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables to fuel muscle growth. A weight gain powder containing protein, carbs and healthy fats can be a convenient way to increase your calorie intake. Tracking your calories and macros can help ensure you are in a controlled surplus.

Prioritize Protein Intake

Protein is the building block for growing and repairing muscles. Aim for around 0.7 to 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily when bulking. Include a protein source like eggs, poultry, lean meat, dairy, protein powder, or beans in each meal. Consuming a fast-absorbing protein like whey protein right after your workout can maximize repair and recovery. Varying your protein sources ensures you get a full amino acid profile.

Eat More Frequently

Don’t go long stretches without eating when trying to bulk up. Consuming 5-6 smaller meals spaced evenly throughout the day keeps your body constantly supplied with muscle-building nutrients. It also prevents you from getting overly full or hungry, so you can make smart food choices. Pack snacks like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, mixed nuts, jerky, or protein bars to eat between meals. Planning ahead helps ensure you always have healthy snacks on hand.

Allow for Rest and Recovery

Bulking up places increased demands on the muscles, so allowing proper rest between workouts is key. Aim for at least 1 full rest day where you do no intense exercise, and make sure to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Insufficient recovery time can hinder strength and muscle gains. Proper rest, along with good nutrition, allows the body to repair muscle tissue and grow. Listen to your body and take additional rest days whenever needed.

Be Patient and Consistent

Gaining muscle requires dedication and consistency over time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see major changes on the scale or in the mirror in just a few weeks. Muscle growth is a gradual process. Stick with your training, nutrition, and recovery plan, tracking progress periodically. Adjust your calories gradually if needed. With consistent effort and smart bulking methods, you will see satisfying muscle gains over time. Trust the process and stay motivated towards your end goal.

Bulking up and adding muscle mass demands commitment, strategically increasing calories, strength training, proper protein intake and rest. By following these top tips for smart bulking, you can achieve great muscle gains efficiently. Use compound lifts, controlled calorie surpluses, plenty of protein and recovery time to build your best physique yet. Stay patient and trust the bulking process.

LAMBORGHINI MUSEUM

Expressing emotions through mere touch of the hands, describing what cannot be seen with the eyes. These are the themes addressed in the new Automobili Lamborghini video that shows how each emotion is unique, just as the way to express it is unique. “The Touch: The Power of Emotions”: the video coincides with the European Month of Diversity, highlighting the attention the Sant’Agata Bolognese company dedicates to the issues of diversity and inclusion.

The video, for which Automobili Lamborghini would like to thank UICI (the Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired ETS – APS), describes the sensations experienced by the protagonists when touching a Huracán Tecnica[1]. Every intensity of emotion, detected through sensors attached to their hands, corresponds to a different color because, as one of them says, “touching means gaining access to all forms of knowledge.” 

The video was inspired by a real event at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport when Luca Grasso, Director of Polo Tattile Multimediale in Catania (a multimedia touch center for the blind and visually impaired), was refused the chance to touch a Lamborghini on display there. This episode motivated Automobili Lamborghini to make contact with the Milan branch of the UICI and work on this project together.

The initiative is part of Lamborghini’s commitment to promoting inclusion, making its history and products accessible to an increasingly wide audience. Since 2019 the Lamborghini Museum has offered a series of events in which visits are conducted in Italian Sign Language (LIS), with a certified LIS interpreter, in a journey to discover the history and the technological innovations of the masterpieces made in Sant’Agata Bolognese.

From June 2024 people who are blind or visually impaired can enjoy visits to the Lamborghini Museum. Guests will have the opportunity, by reservation, to participate in guided tours where they can touch models on display and experience the world of Lamborghini through the sensations created by physical contact with the cars.

For information and reservations for guided tours of the Lamborghini Museum, please send an email to visit@lamborghini.com.

Link to video part one on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ndbsc2df7Vg 

Link to video part one with audio description: https://youtu.be/AolGHb5t_7I

Link to video part two on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7419BX3KYEk

Link to video part two with audio description: https://youtu.be/Gd5rWbQj6M8

[1] Fuel consumption and emission values of Huracán Tecnica; Fuel consumption combined: 14,5 l/100km (WLTP); CO₂-emissions combined: 328 g/km (WLTP).

MONTBLANC POP-UP

Last week, Montblanc officially launched a new brand campaign directed by Wes Anderson to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the most famous pen in the world: the Meisterstuck writing instrument. To further bring Wes’ unique vision of the Montblanc universe to life, the Maison is taking over Los Angeles’ iconic Rodeo Drive with a Pop-Up Chalet inspired by the campaign and all things Meisterstuck for its first centennial, which officially opened to the public on May 4th. 

The Pop-Up chalet draws inspiration from Wes Anderson’s campaign film, reflecting the brand’s heritage with a mountain setting reminiscent of its namesake and emblem. Furnished with mid-century modern elegance and green accents, the space invites visitors to immerse themselves in Montblanc’s 100th anniversary Meisterstück collections, including The Origin Collection, leather capsules, and the upcoming “Schreiberling” writing instrument designed by Anderson, officially debuting May 2025. The Pop-Up also offers exclusive products like the coral-colored extension of the Extreme 3.0 leather collection, alongside interactive areas for writing experimentation and customization services such as the Bespoke Nib Configurator. Additionally, guests can write postcards at a Montblanc desk, explore rare High Artistry Limited Edition Collections, or partake in unique programming throughout the summer including panel discussions, calligraphy workshops, book-binding classes, and more. 

Located at 459 North Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles, CA, Montblanc’s Meisterstuck 100 Pop-Up is open to the public from May 4th until July 31st, 2024, Monday-Saturday 10am – 6pm, and Sunday 12pm – 5pm. For additional information on the Pop-Up programming and offerings, please visit HERE.

Montblanc popup in Los Angeles bia 360 MAGAZINE.

FAHREN FEINGOLD ART

“Ethereal Legacy: The Art of Fahren Feingold” is a poignant retrospective that celebrates the profound and lasting impact of the late artist Fahren Feingold (1980-2023). Curated by Indira Cesarine, founder of The Untitled Space gallery, the exhibition offers a comprehensive view of Feingold’s artistic evolution and her unwavering commitment to empowering women through her captivating watercolor paintings.

Feingold’s artistic journey was marked by a fearless exploration of the female form, challenging societal norms and patriarchal constructs through her ethereal and sensual works. From her early days as an artist, her unapologetic depiction of the female nude stood out, captivating global audiences and sparking discussions on broader societal issues. As Feingold herself stated, “My paintings act as a quiet dagger of truth, exposing the beauty of the feminine form from the female gaze, emphasizing the female body as a great thing to behold, free of judgment and objectification.”

The exhibition features over 50 never-before-seen paintings from Feingold’s estate, including works on paper and canvas, as well as a number of pieces from previous solo exhibitions. These works serve as a testament to her trailblazing spirit and her commitment to reclaiming the female narrative through art.

Feingold’s watercolors were not merely erotic; they were a celebration of femininity, a reclamation of the female narrative, and a defiant stance against the objectification of women’s bodies. Her vibrant palette and dreamlike brushstrokes invited viewers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the female form, free from societal constraints. Through her art, Feingold gave voice to women of the past and present, exploring the complexities of female identity and the ongoing struggle for equality. Her works were a powerful expression of the female gaze, a perspective often overlooked or suppressed in the art world.

Tragically, Feingold’s life was cut short by cancer on September 26, 2023, at the age of 43. However, her legacy lives on through the captivating works she left behind. The exhibition’s final section features a series of emotionally charged pieces, including many works on canvas that embody a profound intensity and potent emotive spirit, focusing on close-up portraits of women. These portraits not only evoke a deep sensitivity but also reflect a distinctly personal evolution of the artist’s vision.

“Ethereal Legacy: The Art of Fahren Feingold” serves as a tribute to an artist whose impact on the art world will endure. Feingold’s art continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, reminding us of the enduring power of the female gaze and the transformative power of creativity.

Exhibition Details:

  • Dates: May 11 – May 31, 2024
  • Location: The Untitled Space, 45 Lispenard Street, New York, NY 10013
  • Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

For more information about the exhibition, visit www.untitled-space.com.

RR CULLINAN SERIES II

ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE CULLINAN SERIES II: THE ALTER EGO, EVOLVED

  • Black Badge Cullinan Series II, an evolved, more visceral expression of Rolls-Royce
  • Caters to a select subset of Rolls-Royce clients with specific tastes and priorities
  • Unique Black Badge exterior brightwork and interior details developed for Series II 
  • More overt and expressive application of contemporary materials and technologies
  • Integrates advanced digital interface, SPIRIT, and private members app, Whispers
  • New interior Clock Cabinet vitrine incorporates Black Badge Spirit of Ecstasy figurine
  • New Duality Twill seating incorporates 2.2 million stitches and up to 11 miles of thread
  • New Placed Perforation seat pattern inspired by clouds over the Home of Rolls-Royce and made up of 107,000 individual perforations 
  • First time a 23-inch wheel is available for a Black Badge Rolls-Royce
  • Proven performance of 600 hp and 664 ft lbs of torque 
  • Available from launch, alongside Cullinan Series II 

“We created our Black Badge family for a distinct group of clients who seek a more visceral interpretation of the Rolls-Royce experience. In its engineering, technology, materials, and design, Black Badge Cullinan Series II caters to these preferences, and this group of clients’ keen appetite for innovation and new modes of self-expression. Cullinan’s darker alter ego has always asserted its own unique place in our product portfolio; I’m certain that this new incarnation will build on its predecessor’s success.”

Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“Black Badge Cullinan Series II reflects the changes we’ve seen in our client profile since we first launched this transformative motor car five years ago. Today, self-expression, individuality and boldness are demanded more than ever before – all attributes that form the core of the Black Badge attitude. Our creative response has matched the daring of those who commission these motor cars. The dark, primal elements that are so essential to the Black Badge character are expressed here in extremis and are further amplified by dramatic and assertive coachwork reserved for this subversive expression of the brand.”

Anders Warming, Design Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Rolls-Royce’s disruptive alter ego, Black Badge, reached its apotheosis in Cullinan where its assertive and uncompromising attitude appeals to clients who seek the boldest forms of self-expression. Today, the marque presents a clear evolution of this subversive motor car with Black Badge Cullinan Series II. 

BLACK BADGE CULLINAN SERIES II: EXTERIOR

Black Badge Cullinan Series II asserts its presence with an impactful front-end treatment. The principal differentiator is the lower air intake design. These geometrical pieces incorporate widened veins, signalling the motor car’s more urgent dynamic character. Above this is the marque’s iconic Pantheon grille, which has been illuminated for the first time across Cullinan and Black Badge Cullinan Series II. For Black Badge, the grille is finished in the series’ hallmark Black, though a silver ‘horizon line’ creates a sense of breadth and solidity while framing the motor car’s vertical daytime running lights. For clients wishing to fully cloak their motor car in darkness, this is also available in an all-black finish. 

All exterior body detail elements and brightwork, including the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, are also finished in Black. For the first time in the history of Black Badge, this now extends from the window surrounds and door spears to the door handles. Each piece is hand-prepared by the marque’s artisans: first, a light abrasive is used across the handle to provide a ‘key’ for a hardwearing primer, onto which four coats of Black paint are then applied. After curing, these pieces are individually polished to ensure that they match the rich, high-gloss coachwork of Black Badge Cullinan Series II. 

Other darkened elements, including the rear tailgate and bumper accents as well as the motor car’s exhausts, are treated with a specific chrome electrolyte to achieve the mirror-black effect. This is introduced to the traditional chrome plating process and co-deposited on the stainless-steel substrate, darkening the finish. Its final thickness is just one micrometre – around one hundredth of the width of a human hair. Each of these components is precision-polished by hand to achieve a mirror-black chrome finish before it is fitted to the motor car. 

Black Badge Cullinan Series II clients are now able to extend exterior colours to all lower body surfaces, as well as the subtly enhanced lower sill, valances, and lower front bumper – a treatment reserved for Black Badge Cullinan Series II. This visually lowers the motor car, creating a more dynamic statement that further amplifies its monolithic form.  

The exterior treatment is completed with 23-inch wheels – the first-time wheels of this size have been offered by the marque for a Black Badge motor car. From a distance, the design appears to consist of five spokes finished in gloss-black and silver. In fact, there are 10 interwoven spokes: the visual effect is created by a carefully orchestrated interplay between polished, painted and recessed, negative surfaces. The design also allows a clear view of the Black Badge disc brake callipers, shown in a signature Red, which can also be finished in Black, Turchese, Mandarin, and Forge Yellow.

BLACK BADGE CULLINAN SERIES II: A SUBVERSIVE INTERIOR TREATMENT

Advanced, technical materials have become a hallmark of Black Badge Rolls-Royces. For Black Badge Cullinan Series II, this theme continues. Clients expressed their appreciation of the original Black Badge Cullinan’s Technical Carbon finish – on this basis, this exquisite material has been retained for Series II. The naked-weave carbon-fibre finish has been developed to create a precise repeating pattern of geometrical shapes that create a three-dimensional effect. Each leaf of Technical Carbon is finished with six coats of lacquer before being left to cure for 72 hours then all 23 pieces are hand-polished to a mirror finish. This process takes 21 days in total. 

If Individual Rear Seats are commissioned, clients can include the Black Badge family motif, known as the infinity symbol, onto the rear Technical Carbon ‘Waterfall’ section that separates the rear reclining chairs and conceals the Cullinan Series II Champagne cooler. This delicate aluminium piece is placed between the third and fourth layer of six layers of subtly tinted lacquer, creating the illusion that the symbol is floating above the Technical Carbon.  In Lounge Seat configuration, the infinity symbol is embroidered.

The seats themselves are available to commission in the marque’s stunning new Duality Twill textile, a new rayon fabric made from bamboo fibres and inspired by the extensive bamboo grove in the Jardin Botanique du Rayol on the Côte d’Azur, which neighbours Sir Henry Royce’s former winter home, Villa Mimosa. The twill textile is embroidered with an artistic ‘Duality’ graphic. Based on an abstract interpretation of the two interlinked letter R initials of the marque’s founders, the design reflects a clear nautical influence, reminiscent of the interweaving rope lines found on sailing yachts – another subtle allusion to the French Riviera.

A complete Duality Twill interior of the intricately embroidered textile incorporates up to 2.2 million stitches and 11 miles of thread. This exquisite material can be further dramatized with bold Bespoke colourways, further enhancing this remarkable new finish for Black Badge clients. 

Placed Perforation seating can also be incorporated into this bold expression of Cullinan. 107,000 0.8- and 1.2-millimetre perforations are made onto the seat leather, creating an abstract pattern, inspired by the constantly changing shapes and shadows of the clouds over the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood in the twilight hours. 

The dark ambience of Black Badge continues with the interior metals. Air vent surrounds on the dashboard and in the rear cabin are darkened using physical vapour deposition, a method of colouring metal that does not discolour or tarnish over time or through repeated use. 

The subversive design principles of Black Badge motor cars have also been applied to Cullinan Series II’s unique Clock Cabinet. This inset vitrine displays both an analogue timepiece and an up-lit Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. The Spirit of Ecstasy is rendered in Black, recalling the figure that sits on the prow of Black Badge Cullinan Series II. The Clock Cabinet is flanked by Cullinan’s new Illuminated Fascia, which displays an ethereal glowing infinity symbol within the new vertical Cityscape pattern.  

Black Badge Cullinan Series II is also the stage for an exclusive digital Bespoke treatment, with instrument dials now available in five neo-futuristic colourways: Vivid Grellow, Neon Nights, Cyan Fire and the kaleidoscopic-style Synth Wave.

BLACK BADGE CULLINAN SERIES II: PROVEN ENGINEERING

In Black Badge Cullinan’s first guise, clients requested that the Black Badge experience extended beyond the aesthetic treatment of the motor car. In the five years since its launch, the changes made by Rolls-Royce engineers for the 2019 motor car, which included higher capacity air springs to alleviate body roll and the addition of even greater power reserves, have become integral to this bold motor car’s appeal. Accordingly, these qualities are preserved for Black Badge Cullinan Series II, including the twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 engine, which generates a total output of 600 hp, and 664 lb ft of torque.

To exploit the additional power, the transmission and throttle remain calibrated for more immediate acceleration. The ZF eight-speed gear box and both front- and rear-steered axles work together to adjust the levels of feedback to the driver, depending on throttle and steering inputs without compromising the motor car’s effortless magic carpet ride experience. 

Depressing the ‘Low’ button on the gear selection stalk continues to unlock further Black Badge technologies. When activated, drivers experience a change in tone and volume from the Bespoke Black Badge exhaust system, signalling that all of the 664 ft-lb of torque reserves are available from 1700rpm – just 700rpm above tick-over. Low Mode also increases the speed of gear shifts by 50% when the throttle is depressed to 90%. To fully exploit Black Badge Cullinan Series II, the brake pedal travel has been decreased to create a more immediate response to driver inputs.  

A BOLD BESPOKE TREATMENT

Like its predecessor, Black Badge Cullinan Series II defines a distinct attitude and aesthetic code within the super-luxury sector. The clients who patronise this expression of the brand do so on their own terms – with Black Badge Cullinan Series II, Rolls-Royce signals its ongoing commitment to these individuals’ requirements, and their bold appreciation of luxury. 

Rolls-Royce Cullinan series 2 via 360 MAGAZINE.
Rolls-Royce Cullinan series 2 via 360 MAGAZINE.

MJB + PEPSI

WATCH

Over the weekend, GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning and Oscar-nominated artist, actress, producer, and entrepreneur Mary J. Blige, PEPSI®, Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. wrapped an unforgettable takeover across New York City, from May 10th to May 12th, for the third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit. The lively weekend consisted of three days devoted to music, female empowerment sessions, exceptional industry speakers, and moving testimonials. Created and curated by the newly inducted Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honoree, Mary J. Blige, the Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is the only festival experience in the market, brought to you exclusively by an all-Black female team, and arrived at the birthplace of Hip-Hop, New York City, after previously being held in Atlanta for its first two years.

“This past weekend was a whirlwind in the best way possible,” said Mary J. Blige. “Getting to bring this home to NYC is something I won’t forget. Thank you to everyone who came out, to all my family who participated and to everyone involved, including my partners at Pepsi, who made this dream come to life. Until next year!”

The festival kicked off on Friday, May 10th with an intimate welcome party hosted by Mary J. Blige at Corner Social in Harlem. Guests enjoyed cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres, while dancing the night away to the sounds of Hot 97’s Funkmaster Flex. The evening continued downtown in Greenwich Village at Blue Note with two sold-out jazz shows headlined by 5x GRAMMY-winning artist Robert Glasper at the legendary Blue Note. Taking the stage, Glasper performed a medley of songs for the intimate crowd in attendance. The evening concluded with Mary J. Blige gracing the stage with Glasper where the pair shared anecdotes before leaving the audience with an inspiring mantra: “Each one, teach one, help one.” Additional notable celebrities in attendance included Tiffany Haddish, Tasha Smith, Rapsody, and Bryan Michael Cox.

On Saturday, the morning commenced with over 4,000 attendees for the Strength of a Woman Summit held at The Glasshouse. The highly-anticipated summit kicked off with a motivational prayer from Tasha Smith and welcome remarks from The Breakfast Club co-host and comedian Jess Hilarious. The star-studded panels included “Girl Talk with MJB,” an unfiltered conversation that celebrated the magical bond of Black women’s friendships with Mary J. Blige, and her celebrity besties Angie Martinez, Taraji P. Henson, and Tasha Smith. The summit also included an “Our Men Honor the Strength of a Woman” panel, a dynamic men’s discussion led by the cast of Starz’s hit series’, Method Man, Larenz Tate, Michael Rainey Jr., Da’Vinchi, and Mekai Curtis. Additional notable key speakers that contributed to the program’s captivating sessions included Marsai Martin, Pinky Cole Hayes, Crystal Renee Hayslett, Misa Hylton, Bevy Smith, Claire Sulmers, Simone I. Smith, Kim Kimble, Tunde Oyeneyin, and more. Co-hosted by comedian and co-host of The Breakfast Club, Jess Hilarious and award-winning on-air talent, journalist and podcaster, Gia Peppers, the incredible event, which was free for the public with registration, featured a total of nine panels highlighting the festival’s mission and purpose of empowerment, elevation, education, and equity to life with inspiring programming, pivotal panels, and experiences, focused on wellness, culture, finance and entrepreneurship, style, beauty, podcasts and much more.

The panels are only one star-studded component of the Summit. Activations included a tooth gem station by Get Gem’d, a myriad of memorable photo moments, and a lush build-your-own bouquet bar. Guests were also welcomed to explore “Mary’s Living Room,” a comfortable sanctuary featuring the varietals of the Sun Goddess wine collection, Sister Love’s bold jewelry designs and the specially made Strength of a Woman merchandise. Additionally, guests were invited to immerse themselves in the music and memories of Mary J. Blige’s “My Life” album in a custom listening booth, created as a special tribute to the 30th anniversary of the iconic album.

PEPSI®, the festival’s returning partner, offered Summit attendees delicious food, custom cocktails, mocktails and complimentary beverages at the Pepsi Dig In Village, capturing the diverse flavors of the major foodie city. Pepsi Dig In, the brand’s platform designed to drive access, business growth, and awareness for Black-owned restaurants, featured dishes from five female-owned restaurants: Slutty Vegan, Melba’s, 2 Girls & A Cookshop, Aunts Et Uncles and Je T’aime Patisserie.

“Pepsi returned as co-presenting partner for the Mary J. Blige Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, this time bringing our shared vision to elevate, educate and empower women to New York City – our own backyard and Mary’s hometown. Pepsi Dig In, the brand’s platform to support Black-owned restaurants, also returned to feature five local female-owned restaurants at the Pepsi Dig In Village to spotlight these businesses at the Summit to drive visibility and awareness to their incredible dishes. The weekend’s sold-out events and continued success is a testament to Mary’s impact,” said Kent Montgomery, Senior Vice President, PepsiCo Industry Relations and Multicultural Development.

Additional partners with onsite activations included, Mielle Organics, who provided an onsite hairstylist and giveaways of their must-have beauty and haircare products, and Verizon Business, who invited attendees to delve into the brand’s suite of small business offerings while also enjoying complimentary charging services of their mobile devices. Additional sponsors for this year’s summit included ASCAP and Starz.

Following the Summit, New Yorkers flocked to the Barclays Center in Brooklyn for a concert headlined by   newly-inducted Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Strength of a Woman founder Mary J. Blige, with additional performances by 50 Cent, Jill Scott, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Lola Brooke, Honey Bxby, and Funk Flex. The evening was hosted by “the voice of New York,” Angie Martinez and kicked off with a special tribute to “Hip Hop Moms,” featuring Mama Jones (Jim Jones’ mother), Audrey Jackson (Pop-Smoke’s mother), Debbie Phillips (Jadakiss’s mother) and Athena Dubose (A. Boogie’s mother.) Rising sibling quartet, WanMor, made up of singer Wanya Morris’ four sons, surprised their mother, Traci Nash, by serenading her with the song “A Song for Mama,” made famous by their father’s group, Boyz II Men.

In between sets, Funkmaster Flex kept the party going with lively DJ sets that kept the crowd on their feet. Honey Bxby took the stage first, kicking off her set with “Basic.” Next up was Brooklyn’s own Lola Brooke – who started her set by thanking her mother for allowing her to pursue her dreams. Legendary rapper Jadakiss performed and surprised the crowd when he brought out Styles P and Sheek Louch of his group The Lox to perform three of their hits. 50 Cent made a grand entrance as he was lifted onto the stage to start his performance. During his set, he performed fan-favorite track “Big Rich Town,” and was joined not only by G-Unit’s Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda, but he also brought out cast members of three of his hit Starz series, including Michael Rainey Jr. (Power Book II: Ghost), Larenz Tate (Power Book II: Ghost) and Da’vinchi (BMF), while Mekai Curtis (Power Book III: Raising Kanan) surprised concertgoers by hopping on the drums during 50 Cent’s song “In Da Club.” 50 Cent made the days of a few lucky fans when he launched the Givenchy varsity jacket and orange leather vest he was wearing into the crowd. For the main event, Mary J. Blige rose up onto the stage and joined 50 Cent to sing “Hate It Or Love It.” Throughout the evening, she performed her hits including “You Remind Me,” “Love No Limit,” “I Can Love You,” “Mary Jane (All Night Long),” “I’m Going Down,” “Still Believe In Love,” and featured surprise performances from Vado, A. Boogie and Method Man. The night continued with Jill Scott, Jadakiss, Fat Joe with special guest Remy Ma, and WanMor each performing their own sets for the crowd. To close out the evening of an already iconic night of performances, Blige returned to the stage – with her third stunning outfit change of the night – to sing some of her greatest hits, including fan-favorite “Just Fine” and “Family Affair.” If that wasn’t enough, Blige then shocked the crowd by announcing the long-anticipated “The Mary Boot,” her new boot collaboration with Giuseppe Zanotti, which is now on sale.

On the final day of the event-filled weekend, the festival continued with a sold-out Mother’s Day Brunch Experience hosted by Mary J. Blige, held at Brooklyn Chop House in Times Square. With sounds provided by Funk Flex and DJ Smooth Ski, the event featured a pre-fixe brunch menu for guests to enjoy. Notable attendees in attendance included, Taraji P. Henson, Misa Hylton, and Mekai Curtis. Mary provided concluding remarks, including a quote from The Intruders classic hit song, “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” before wishing the excited audience a Happy Mother’s Day. Following the brunch, the festival made its way to the Brooklyn Paramount for an uplifting gospel concert presented by Femme It Forward, featuring uplifting performances by the legendary gospel group, The Clark Sisters and Jane Handcock, who opened the show.

This year’s festival expanded its footprint across the New York City boroughs, bringing the event’s purpose of empowerment, elevation, and education to life for the community. On Thursday, April 25, Pepsi launched the Pepsi x Mary J. Blige Strength of a Woman Community Fund, with $100,000 available as grants to local organizations whose work elevates and educates underserved women in Mary’s hometown of Yonkers, NY. 

Stay Updated with the latest on Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit:
Instagram: @SOAWFestival
Twitter: @SOAWFest
Facebook: Strength of a Woman Fest

The Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is produced by MVD Inc., an internationally acclaimed creative production agency led by co-founders and sisters Miatta Johnson and Massah David.

For more information, please visit soawfestival.com.

*Mary J. Blige takes the stage for a packed audience at the Barclays Center at Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc.
on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City.
(Photo Credit: Ellen Qbertplaya for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)

Yoga Tips

Achieving Union of Body, Mind, and Spirit by Dr. Ishan Shivanand

Yoga literally means union. Your emotional, mental, and physical being is in union when they are in sync or harmony. Here are a few ways to achieve this state of yoga.  

1. Morning Empowerment Rituals:

• Build Awareness: Close your eyes and focus on your breath, tracing it from the crown of your head to the base of your spine and back. Practice this cyclic breath for 5 minutes to bring your mind into full awareness and the present moment.

• Ground Yourself: Extend your right hand upwards, facing the sky, and your left hand downwards, facing the earth. Slowly move both hands in opposite directions, synchronizing with your breath. This grounding motion fosters a sense of stability and connection to the earth.

2. Connect with Solar Energy for Healing:

• Heal Yourself: Visualize the light of the Sun streaming down into your body, from head to feet, illuminating each body part. Feel the warmth and healing energy of the sun’s light infusing every cell.

3. Practice Gratitude:

• Express Gratitude: Take a moment to thank your body for its service and each element in the universe that supports your existence. Cultivate gratitude for self and everyone.

4. Evening Cleansing and Reflection:

• Cleanse Yourself: Close your mouth and focus on your naval, producing a humming sound. Experience the deep cleansing and calming effect as you release tension and negative energy.

• Clear Brain Fog: Exhale forcefully through your nose while keeping your mouth closed. With each exhalation, close your fists and bring your hands closer to your body, and then push them away. Repeat this 5-10 times and feel your mind clearing and energizing with each breath.

5. Cultivate Acceptance and Love:

• Practice Self-Acceptance: Send feelings of acceptance and unconditional love to yourself, acknowledging your inherent worthiness.

• Extend Unconditional Love to All Beings: Radiate feelings of acceptance and unconditional love to the elements, the natural world, and all living beings known and unknown. Experience deep peace as you infuse positivity in you and in the global consciousness.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can foster harmony between your emotional, mental, and physical being, leading to a state of union and holistic well-being.

Bieber + Baby

Baby, Baby, Baby, Oh!

In celebration of Justin and Hailey Bieber’s baby news, Madame Tussauds London has dressed the dad-to-be with a baby carrier to help him get some all-important practice in ahead of the big arrival. Fans of the ‘Baby‘ superstar can see the figure at the Baker Street attraction.

Fans excited about the news can see Justin’s figure in the Impossible Festival zone at the attraction.

Justin Bieber and baby carrier via Madame Tussauds London and 360 MAGAZINE.

NLE CHOPPA – S+M

‘SLUT SZN’ CONTINUES!

NLE CHOPPA IS “STICKIN AND MOVIN” ON NEW SINGLE

LISTEN HERE – WATCH HERE

Keeping the heat turned up on “Slut Szn,” Memphis rap sensation NLE Choppa ignites the scene with his latest single, “Stickin and Movin,” out now via NLE Entertainment/Warner Records. Immerse yourself in the track HERE and experience the visually striking and sexually charged video featuring the NLE Choppa x FCTRY LAb Duck Boot HERE.

Crafted by CuBeatz and ISM, the song rides on a wave of soulful vocal samples, interwoven with breezy beats and sun-kissed keys. Choppa effortlessly navigates the production with his trademark smooth delivery and undeniable urgency. Amidst steamy verses, he effortlessly drops an infectious chorus, asserting his prowess with the repeated mantra, “I’m stickin and movin,” showcasing the finesse of a fighter and the swagger of a true player.

“Stickin and Movin” arrives hot on the heels of the viral sensation, “Slut Me Out 2,” which has already amassed over 9 million global streams and 3 million YouTube views for its music video. Acting as the tantalizing sequel to his explosive 2022 RIAA 2x Platinum-certified hit, “Slut Me Out,” Choppa continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with his infectious energy and bold lyricism.

Beyond the studio, NLE Choppa has been making waves with his collaboration with Omar Bailey’s FCTRY LAb, unveiling the limited edition Neon Yellow Duck Boot. The NLE Choppa x FCTRY LAb Duck Boot is available to shop at FCTRY LAb (www.fctrylab.com). The NLE Choppa x FCTRY LAb Duck Boot is priced at $250. 

In addition, Choppa is currently electrifying audiences nationwide on his “SLUT SZN” college tour, delivering unforgettable performances at universities across the country, culminating with a headline show at the University of Chicago on May 11. Following this, he will join forces with A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie for the highly anticipated Better Off Alone tour, commencing on June 14 in Michigan and concluding with a monumental performance at New York’s Madison Square Garden on June 24. Known for his electrifying stage presence and unparalleled fan engagement, each stop on the tour promises an explosive showcase of Choppa’s chart-topping hits and special surprises for fans.

FOLLOW NLE CHOPPA:

Website | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | Press Site | TikTok

Photo: Thomas Welch